Parker could face Boro

31 Dec 2010 09:00:04

Leeds defender Ben Parker is in contention for his first appearance in over eight months in the home clash with Middlesbrough.Left-back George McCartney has returned to Sunderland following the expiry of his loan spell and Parker, sidelined due to a series of injuries that restricted him to only four appearances last season, could make a long-awaited return to the side.Summer signing Fede Bessone and Andrew Hughes provide manager Simon Grayson with further options.Midfielder Neil Kilkenny is available to make his final appearance before joining up with the Australia squad ahead of the Asian Cup in Qatar.Grayson opted for Ross McCormack in place of Kilkenny against Portsmouth, while the manager must decide whether to recall striker Luciano Becchio in place of Billy Paynter, who made his first start for the club in Tuesday's home draw.